Jersey City Candidate for City Council: Moriah Kinberg, Ward D

As we prepare to swear in the new president, many of us are looking inward, thinking about what happens next in our own corner of the world. Today I met Moriah “Mo” Kinberg, Ward D resident and lifelong activist who is hoping to unseat Michael Yun in the 2017 City Council race. (Note: Rumors have been circulating for months that Yun plans to throw his hat into the mayoral race, but those remain unconfirmed.)

Want to meet her? She’ll be at Gino’s (380 Central Ave.) tomorrow night from 7:30-9:30 hosting a launch party/fundraiser. Until then, read on to learn more about Mo, her background, and her vision for the Heights.

Tell me a little about yourself, and your family.

I’m first generation Moroccan American on my mom’s side and my dad’s family is from St. Louis, Missouri. Both of my parents were community leaders who championed social justice issues. I became engaged in civics at a young age and have been an active community volunteer my entire life. Professionally, I’ve been a community organizer for over a decade. I’ve worked on campaigns from the ground up – ranging from transportation and education to food policy and environmental justice issues. I also have a 5 month old baby with my husband and two adorable dogs. I live on Webster Ave in Jersey City Heights.

How long have you been living in the Heights?

I moved to Jersey City Heights in 2010.

What do you love about the Heights? About Jersey City?

I love the cultural diversity, the passionate, dedicated community members who have lived here for many generations, and the new people who are dedicated to our community. The neighborhood organizations are strong and there is a wealth of artists, entrepreneurs, and family-oriented neighbors.

What priorities/goals do you have for Ward D?

My overall vision for Ward D is to have cleaner streets, better and more reliable transportation, increased economic opportunities, fair housing and a deeper engagement with City Hall as we tackle these issues.None of this can be accomplished without increased civic engagement, which is one of my guiding principles.

What makes Ward D unique?

I fell in love with the Heights. It is where I have chosen to put my roots and grow my family. I started as a renter and volunteered my time when I moved to the area. The Heights community is dedicated to building its community and bringing people together. The sense of community and the drive people have to volunteer their time to building community is really unique. That is a huge part of what motivated me to run for City Council.

Jersey City will hold general elections for mayor and all nine city council seats on November 7, 2017.